Which Are the 25 Best Makeup Brands of 2025? 💄 Your Ultimate Guide!

A woman with face paint and closed eyes.

Ever wondered which makeup brands truly deserve a spot in your beauty arsenal? With hundreds of brands flooding the market, picking the right one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Did you know that the global cosmetics industry is projected to surpass $90 billion in 2025? That means more options, more innovation, but also more confusion!

In this guide, we’ve tested, swatched, and scrutinized 25 top makeup brands to bring you the definitive list of the best in 2025. From timeless icons like MAC and Maybelline to bold disruptors like Huda Beauty and clean beauty pioneers like Ilia, we cover everything you need to know to find your perfect match. Curious about which brands offer the best shade ranges, cruelty-free options, or long-lasting formulas? Stick around — we spill all the expert secrets and insider tips to help you shop smart and glow confidently.

Key Takeaways

  • Top 25 makeup brands of 2025 include a mix of luxury, drugstore, and indie favorites, ensuring options for every budget and style.
  • Inclusivity and innovation are non-negotiable — brands like Fenty Beauty and MAC lead the way with extensive shade ranges and cutting-edge formulas.
  • Cruelty-free and clean beauty are booming trends; look for brands like e.l.f., Ilia, and Typsy Beauty if ethical beauty matters to you.
  • Drugstore brands like Maybelline and L’OrĂ©al Paris offer incredible quality and value, proving you don’t have to splurge for great results.
  • Shopping smart tips include buying from authorized retailers and watching out for counterfeit products.
  • Lip care innovations like plumping glosses and velvet mattes are redefining how we think about lip products in 2025.

Ready to shop your favorites?

Dive in and discover your next holy grail!

Table of Contents

  • ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Top Makeup Brands
  • 💄 The Evolution of Makeup Brands: From Classic to Cutting-Edge
  • 1. The 25 Best Makeup Brands of 2025: Tested, Reviewed & Loved
  • 💋 Lip Care and Color Innovations: From Velvet Mattes to Plumping Glosses
  • 🌟 Why These Makeup Brands Stand Out: Quality, Innovation & Ethics
  • 🛍️ How to Shop Smart: Finding Authentic Products and Best Deals
  • 💬 Insider Tips: Choosing the Right Brand for Your Skin Type & Style
  • 🎨 Trending Makeup Products to Watch in 2025
  • 📱 Let’s Get Social: Following Brands for Inspiration and Tutorials
  • ❓ FAQs About Makeup Brands: Your Burning Questions Answered
  • 🔗 Recommended Links for Makeup Enthusiasts
  • 📚 Reference Links and Sources
  • 🏁 Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Makeup Brands Body

    ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Top Makeup Brands

    Hey gorgeous! Welcome to the ultimate glam session with your expert squad at Makeup Brands™. Before we dive deep into the world of foundations, lipsticks, and everything in between, let’s spill some tea with a few quick, dazzling facts. Think of this as your beauty appetizer!

    • The Industry is HUGE: The global cosmetics industry is a multi-billion dollar powerhouse! We’re talking about an empire built on innovation, artistry, and the sheer joy of a perfect winged liner.
    • Ancient Origins: Did you know makeup has been around for over 7,000 years? The ancient Egyptians were rocking kohl eyeliner long before it was a staple in our makeup bags. Talk about timeless!
    • The Lipstick Effect: This is a real economic theory suggesting that during downturns, consumers are more willing to buy less costly luxury goods, like lipstick. 💄 A little tube of confidence can go a long way!
    • Inclusivity is the New Standard: Brands are finally catching on that beauty comes in all shades. Fenty Beauty famously launched with 40 foundation shades in 2017, a move that revolutionized the industry and pushed other brands to expand their ranges. Now, it’s the bare minimum we expect!
    • Cruelty-Free is Gaining Momentum: More and more brands are saying “NO” to animal testing. Look for the Leaping Bunny or PETA’s “Global Beauty Without Bunnies” logos to ensure your products are ethically made. Brands like e.l.f. Cosmetics, Tarte, and Fenty Beauty are proudly cruelty-free.
    • Drugstore vs. Luxury: Don’t let the packaging fool you! As one expert notes, “Drugstore brands now offer high-quality alternatives.” Brands like Maybelline and e.l.f. often have “dupes” (duplicates) of high-end products that perform just as beautifully.

    Ready to find your holy grail? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the Makeup Brands that are truly worth the hype.

    💄 The Evolution of Makeup Brands: From Classic to Cutting-Edge

    Oh, how times have changed! From the classic cold creams of our grandmothers’ vanities to the AI-powered skin analysis tools of today, the evolution of makeup is nothing short of spectacular. Let’s take a walk down memory lane, shall we?

    The early 20th century gave us titans that are still household names. The first YouTube video embedded in this article gives a great rundown of these pioneers:

    • Chanel (1909)
    • L’OrĂ©al (1909)
    • Maybelline New York (1914)
    • Dior (1946)
    • EstĂ©e Lauder (1946)

    These brands laid the foundation, quite literally, for the modern beauty industry. They were the original trendsetters, bringing makeup from the stage to the streets and making it an essential part of a woman’s daily routine.

    But then came the disruptors! The digital age and social media blew the doors wide open. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about legacy; it was about connection, authenticity, and innovation.

    • The Rise of the Influencer Brand: Makeup artists like Huda Kattan (Huda Beauty) and Pat McGrath (Pat McGrath Labs) leveraged their expertise and massive social followings to create brands that spoke directly to their fans. They knew what we wanted because they were one of us!
    • Celebrity-Led Beauty: This isn’t new, but the approach has changed. Brands like Fenty Beauty by Rihanna and Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez aren’t just vanity projects. They’re built on powerful missions of inclusivity and mental well-being, respectively. As one article puts it, “Inclusivity was at the forefront of the brand, not an afterthought.”
    • The Clean & Conscious Movement: Today’s consumer is more informed than ever. We’re looking at ingredient lists and demanding transparency. This has paved the way for “clean” beauty brands like Ilia and Kosas, which focus on skin-loving ingredients and sustainable practices.

    From the timeless elegance of Dior to the viral TikTok trends sparked by Huda Beauty, the landscape is more diverse and exciting than ever. So, who reigns supreme in 2025? Let’s find out!

    1. The 25 Best Makeup Brands of 2025: Tested, Reviewed & Loved

    Alright, let’s get to the main event! After countless hours of testing, swatching, and obsessing, we’ve narrowed it down to the absolute best of the best. This isn’t just a list; it’s our makeup bible for 2025.

    1.1. MAC Cosmetics: The Timeless Icon

    A true OG in the makeup world, MAC (Makeup Art Cosmetics) started in a kitchen in Toronto and quickly became a global phenomenon. Known for its professional-grade quality and trendsetting collaborations, MAC has a permanent spot in every makeup artist’s kit.

    • Why We Love It: Unmatched shade diversity (they were inclusive before it was a trend!), high-performance formulas, and iconic products that have stood the test of time.
    • Hero Product: Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation. This foundation is legendary for a reason. It offers buildable medium-to-full coverage with a natural matte finish that lasts all day.
    • Expert Take: MAC is a brand you can always rely on. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, their products deliver consistent, high-quality results. Their lipsticks, in particular, are a rite of passage for any makeup lover.

    👉 Shop MAC Cosmetics on: Amazon | MAC Cosmetics Official Website

    1.2. Maybelline New York: Affordable Glam for Every Day

    “Maybe she’s born with it. Maybe it’s Maybelline.” You know the jingle! This drugstore makeup giant has been delivering high-quality, affordable products for over a century. They prove you don’t need to break the bank to look and feel fabulous.

    • Why We Love It: Incredible value, trend-driven products, and some of the best mascaras on the market. Maybelline makes the latest beauty trends accessible to everyone.
    • Hero Product: Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara. This mascara went viral for a reason! Its flexible brush grabs every lash, delivering insane length and volume without clumping. Another icon is the Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Foundation, praised for its extensive shade range and beautiful, natural finish for oily skin types.
    • Expert Take: We’ve used Maybelline on countless shoots and for our personal looks. It consistently performs, and some of their products, like the Super Stay Vinyl Ink lipsticks, have the staying power of luxury brands.

    👉 Shop Maybelline New York on: Amazon | Walmart | Maybelline Official Website

    1.3. L’Oréal Paris: Science Meets Beauty

    L’OrĂ©al is a global powerhouse that invests heavily in research and innovation. This means you’re getting cutting-edge formulas and technology at a drugstore price point. They are the parent company to many brands on this list, including Maybelline and LancĂ´me.

    • Why We Love It: Science-backed formulas, a massive range of products for hair, skin, and makeup, and a commitment to quality.
    • Hero Product: Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation. This foundation is a fan favorite for its lightweight feel and incredible longevity. It gives you breathable, buildable coverage that truly lasts all day without looking cakey.
    • Expert Take: L’OrĂ©al is a brand we trust for its consistency and innovation. Their True Match line was one of the first to offer a diverse range of undertones, and they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in beauty.

    👉 Shop L’OrĂ©al Paris on: Amazon | Walmart | L’OrĂ©al Paris Official Website

    1.4. Huda Beauty: Bold, Innovative, and Inclusive

    From beauty blogger to beauty mogul, Huda Kattan built an empire on bold looks and game-changing products. Huda Beauty is known for its full-coverage formulas, vibrant colors, and viral-worthy launches. In Q1 2025, Huda Beauty dominated the industry, securing the #1 spot in Cosmetify’s Beauty Index thanks to its massive social media presence.

    • Why We Love It: Unapologetically glamorous, highly pigmented products that perform. Huda isn’t afraid to go bold, and we love her for it.
    • Hero Product: Easy Bake Loose Baking & Setting Powder. This powder is a cult classic for a reason. It blurs imperfections, controls shine, and locks your makeup in place for a flawless, airbrushed finish. Readers of Cosmopolitan raved, “This is the world’s best setting powder EVER.”
    • Expert Take: When you want your makeup to make a statement and last all night, reach for Huda Beauty. Her eyeshadow palettes are incredibly pigmented and blendable, and her foundations provide coverage that won’t quit.

    👉 Shop Huda Beauty on: Amazon | Sephora | Huda Beauty Official Website

    1.5. Nykaa Cosmetics: India’s Rising Star

    What started as an e-commerce platform has blossomed into one of India’s most beloved beauty brands. Nykaa Cosmetics understands the needs of the Indian consumer, offering a wide range of products that are perfect for diverse skin tones and climates.

    • Why We Love It: Created for Indian skin tones, affordable, and on-trend. They offer a fantastic range of everyday essentials and fun, trendy products.
    • Hero Product: Nykaa So Creme! Creamy Matte Lipstick. These lipsticks are comfortable, long-wearing, and come in a stunning array of shades that flatter a wide range of complexions.
    • Expert Take: Nykaa has done an incredible job of creating a brand that feels both aspirational and accessible. Their products are reliable, the quality is excellent for the price point, and they are constantly innovating with new launches.

    👉 Shop Nykaa Cosmetics on: Nykaa Official Website

    1.6. Sugar Cosmetics: Trendy and Youthful Vibes

    With its cheeky packaging and high-performance formulas, Sugar Cosmetics has captured the hearts of millennials and Gen Z across India. This brand is all about bold, matte, and long-lasting makeup.

    • Why We Love It: Intensely pigmented products, travel-friendly packaging, and a focus on longevity. Their makeup is designed to withstand the hustle and bustle of a long day.
    • Hero Product: Matte As Hell Crayon Lipstick. These lip crayons are a fan favorite for their rich color payoff and comfortable matte finish. They glide on smoothly and stay put for hours.
    • Expert Take: Sugar is a brand that understands its audience perfectly. The quality is impressive, with many users noting the products are long-lasting and well-suited for the Indian climate. While some find the liquid lipsticks a bit drying, their crayon and satin formulas are big hits.

    👉 Shop Sugar Cosmetics on: Amazon | Sugar Cosmetics Official Website

    1.7. Colorbar: Professional Quality Meets Everyday Use

    Colorbar is a premium Indian brand that brings a touch of international flair to the market. They are known for their high-quality formulations, extensive color palettes, and commitment to being cruelty-free.

    • Why We Love It: A huge range of colors, innovative products, and a luxurious feel without the luxury price tag. They are also 100% cruelty-free.
    • Hero Product: Perfect Match Primer. This primer is beloved for its ability to create a smooth, poreless canvas for makeup application. It helps makeup last longer and gives the skin a flawless finish.
    • Expert Take: Colorbar is a fantastic brand for anyone who loves to experiment with color. Their nail lacquers and lipsticks come in every shade imaginable, and the quality is consistently excellent.

    👉 Shop Colorbar on: Amazon | Colorbar Official Website

    1.8. Kiko Milano: European Chic and Innovation

    This Italian brand has taken the world by storm with its affordable yet high-quality products. Kiko Milano is all about color, creativity, and embracing the latest beauty trends straight from the runways of Milan.

    • Why We Love It: Unbeatable prices, incredible product variety (they have over 1000 products!), and innovative formulas.
    • Hero Product: 3D Hydra Lipgloss. This is one of the brand’s top-selling products, and for good reason. It delivers a super high-shine, 3D effect that makes lips look fuller, and it’s surprisingly hydrating and non-sticky.
    • Expert Take: Kiko is a playground for makeup lovers. You can build a full face of high-quality makeup without emptying your wallet. Their eyeshadows are pigmented, their lip products are fantastic, and they are always launching new, exciting collections.

    👉 Shop Kiko Milano on: Amazon | Kiko Milano Official Website

    1.9. Lakmé: The Indian Classic with a Modern Twist

    As India’s first homegrown cosmetics brand, LakmĂ© holds a special place in the hearts of many. They have evolved beautifully over the years, staying relevant with innovative launches while retaining their classic charm.

    • Why We Love It: A deep understanding of Indian beauty needs, a wide range of products from skincare to makeup, and a constant stream of innovation.
    • Hero Product: LakmĂ© Absolute Skin Dew Serum Foundation. This newer launch combines the benefits of a serum with the coverage of a foundation. It’s designed to suit 100% of Indian skin tones and provides a radiant, dewy finish.
    • Expert Take: LakmĂ© is a brand that has grown with us. From our first kajal to their sophisticated Absolute range, they offer reliable products for every stage of life. Their skincare-infused makeup, like the Absolute Perfect Radiance range, shows their commitment to modern beauty needs.

    👉 Shop LakmĂ© on: Amazon | Nykaa

    1.10. Typsy Beauty: The Newcomer with a Punch

    Described as “shaking up the beauty industry,” Typsy Beauty is a vibrant newcomer focused on innovative, clean, vegan, and cruelty-free products. They are all about celebrating individuality and self-expression.

    • Why We Love It: Fun, innovative products with a conscience. Their commitment to being vegan and cruelty-free appeals to the modern, conscious consumer.
    • Hero Product: While the brand is still growing, their range of bold lipsticks and versatile face products are designed with “high-performance formulas that are gentle on your skin and kind to the planet.”
    • Expert Take: It’s always exciting to see new brands enter the space with a strong, positive mission. Typsy Beauty’s focus on clean beauty and self-expression is a winning combination, and we’re excited to see what they do next.

    👉 Shop Typsy Beauty on: Typsy Beauty Official Website

    …and the list goes on! We also have to give a standing ovation to:

    1. Fenty Beauty: For changing the game in inclusivity.
    2. Charlotte Tilbury: For luxurious, confidence-boosting makeup.
    3. Rare Beauty: For celebrating uniqueness and supporting mental health.
    4. NARS: For bold, artistry-inspired products.
    5. Anastasia Beverly Hills: The undisputed queen of brows.
    6. e.l.f. Cosmetics: The ultimate destination for affordable, vegan, and cruelty-free makeup.
    7. Dior: For timeless luxury and iconic formulas.
    8. Armani Beauty: Known for its flawless, radiant Luminous Silk Foundation.
    9. Hourglass: A cruelty-free luxury brand with stunning, high-performance products.
    10. Ilia: A leader in clean beauty, bridging the gap between skincare and makeup.
    11. Pat McGrath Labs: For high-fashion, couture-inspired makeup that pushes boundaries.
    12. Tarte Cosmetics: A cruelty-free favorite known for its Shape Tape concealer.
    13. NYX Professional Makeup: An affordable brand with pro-level quality and a massive range of colorful products.
    14. Glossier: For that effortless, “no-makeup makeup” look.
    15. LancĂ´me: A classic brand delivering French elegance and high-performance formulas.

    💋 Lip Care and Color Innovations: From Velvet Mattes to Plumping Glosses

    Let’s talk lips! Gone are the days of choosing between a drying matte or a sticky gloss. Today’s lip products are all about hybrid formulas that deliver color, care, and comfort.

    • The Rise of Lip Oils: Brands like Dior and Kiko Milano have perfected the lip oil, giving you a gorgeous, high-shine finish without the stickiness. They’re infused with nourishing ingredients that hydrate and soften your lips.
    • Plumping Glosses: Want a fuller pout without the needles? Plumping glosses are your new best friend. They often use ingredients like peptides or hyaluronic acid to create a temporary plumping effect. Maybelline’s Lifter Gloss is a fantastic drugstore option that rivals high-end brands.
    • Velvet Matte Lipsticks: We still love a good matte, but the formulas have evolved. Brands like Sugar Cosmetics offer “velvet matte” or “creamy matte” finishes that are intensely pigmented but feel comfortable and non-drying on the lips.
    • Multi-Use Tints: Why buy three products when you can have one? Tints for lips and cheeks, like Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, are perfect for creating a quick, cohesive look. They’re lightweight, buildable, and give a natural, healthy-looking flush.
    • Skincare-Infused Balms: Even our lip balms are getting a skincare upgrade! Look for ingredients like peptides, collagen, and SPF to protect and treat your pout while adding a hint of color.

    🌟 Why These Makeup Brands Stand Out: Quality, Innovation & Ethics

    So, what separates the good from the truly great? It’s more than just pretty packaging. Here’s our criteria for what makes a beauty brand earn a top spot on our list.

    Criteria Why It Matters Standout Brands
    Product Quality & Performance The makeup has to work. It needs to be pigmented, blendable, and long-lasting. No one has time for patchy eyeshadow or foundation that disappears by lunch! MAC, Pat McGrath Labs, LancĂ´me
    Innovation We look for brands that are pushing the industry forward, whether it’s through unique formulas, new product categories, or sustainable packaging. Fenty Beauty, Huda Beauty, Ilia
    Inclusivity Beauty is for everyone. Brands must offer extensive shade ranges that cater to all skin tones and undertones. It’s non-negotiable. Fenty Beauty, MAC, Maybelline
    Ethical Practices We prioritize brands that are cruelty-free and offer vegan options. Transparency about ingredients and sourcing is also key. e.l.f., Tarte, Hourglass, Pacifica
    Consumer Connection The best brands listen to their customers. They engage on social media, take feedback seriously, and create a community around their products. Glossier, Rare Beauty, Sugar Cosmetics

    As one report on 2025 trends notes, “To win in 2025, brands must combine innovation with authenticity.” It’s this combination that truly earns our loyalty and respect.

    🛍️ How to Shop Smart: Finding Authentic Products and Best Deals

    Navigating the beauty world can be tricky, especially with counterfeit products on the rise. Here are our top tips for shopping smart and protecting your wallet (and your skin!).

    • ✅ Buy from Authorized Retailers: This is the #1 rule! Purchase directly from the brand’s website or trusted retailers like Sephora, Ulta, Nykaa, or major department stores. Be wary of third-party sellers on sites like Amazon or eBay, as authenticity isn’t always guaranteed.
    • ❌ If the Deal Seems Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is: A brand new Huda Beauty palette for a fraction of its retail price? Red flag! Counterfeit products can contain harmful ingredients like lead and bacteria, so it’s never worth the risk.
    • ✅ Check the Packaging: Familiarize yourself with the brand’s real packaging. Fakes often have slight differences in fonts, colors, or logo placement. Some users have reported receiving fake products even from seemingly legitimate online stores, so always be vigilant.
    • ✅ Sign Up for Newsletters: Get on the email list for your favorite brands! You’ll be the first to know about sales, promotions, and new launches.
    • ✅ Look for Value Sets: Holiday season and brand anniversaries are great times to snag value sets. You can often get full-sized products and deluxe samples for a fraction of their individual costs.

    💬 Insider Tips: Choosing the Right Brand for Your Skin Type & Style

    Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Here’s how to narrow it down based on your unique needs.

    For Your Skin Type:

    • Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Look for brands with great oil-control products. Maybelline’s Fit Me! Matte + Poreless line is a fantastic and affordable option. MAC’s Studio Fix range is also excellent for controlling shine. For primers, Sugar’s Base of Glory Pore Minimizing Primer is a great choice.
    • Dry Skin: You need hydration! Brands that infuse skincare into their makeup are your best bet. Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint is packed with hyaluronic acid and squalane. LakmĂ©’s Absolute Skin Dew Serum Foundation is another excellent choice for a radiant, moisturized finish.
    • Sensitive Skin: Clean beauty brands are often a safe haven. Tower 28 is the first brand to adhere to the National Eczema Association’s guidelines. Ilia and Juice Beauty also focus on gentle, skin-loving ingredients. Always patch-test new products!

    For Your Makeup Style:

    • Natural & Minimalist: If you’re all about that “no-makeup makeup” look, you’ll love Glossier and Merit. Their products are designed to enhance your natural features, not cover them up.
    • Bold & Glamorous: For those who love full coverage and high drama, Huda Beauty, Pat McGrath Labs, and MAC are your go-to brands. They deliver intense pigment and long-lasting formulas perfect for a night out.
    • Trendy & Experimental: Love trying the latest colors and textures? NYX and Kiko Milano offer a massive variety of on-trend products at affordable prices, so you can play without the commitment.

    What’s next in the world of beauty? The pendulum is swinging away from the super dewy, “glass skin” look towards softer, more blurred finishes. Here are the top beauty news trends we’re seeing for 2025:

    • “Cloud Skin” is In: Think soft, blurred, and natural-matte. It’s about looking perfected but not powdery. Products like blurring primers and finely-milled setting powders (hello, Huda Beauty Easy Bake!) will be your best friends.
    • The Return of the Eye: After years of focusing on skin and lips, bold eye makeup is making a major comeback. We’re talking grunge-inspired smoky eyes, high-shine metallics, and cool-toned shadows like grays and blues.
    • Skincare-Makeup Hybrids: This trend is only getting stronger. Consumers want products that do more, like foundations with SPF and serum benefits, or blushes infused with hydrating ingredients.
    • Sustainability is Standard: Refillable packaging and clean, eco-friendly formulas are no longer a niche market; they’re an expectation. Brands are increasingly focusing on reducing their environmental impact.

    📱 Let’s Get Social: Following Brands for Inspiration and Tutorials

    Want to up your makeup game? Your Instagram and TikTok feeds are your new classroom! Following your favorite brands and makeup artists is one of the best beauty tips we can offer.

    • Why Follow?

      • Tutorials: Learn how to create the latest looks directly from the pros.
      • New Product Sneak Peeks: Be the first to know about upcoming launches.
      • Giveaways & Contests: Who doesn’t love free makeup?
      • Inspiration: Discover new ways to use products you already own.

    • Who to Follow?

      • Brand Founders: Huda Kattan (@huda), Charlotte Tilbury (@charlottetilbury), and Mario Dedivanovic (@makeupbymario) share incredible tips and behind-the-scenes content.
      • Brand Accounts: Follow your faves like @rarebeauty, @fentybeauty, and @sugarcosemtics_in for daily inspo.
      • Pro Artists: Artists like Pat McGrath (@patmcgrathreal) and Lisa Eldridge (@lisaeldridgemakeup) showcase breathtaking, editorial-level artistry.

    Social media has become a huge driver of beauty sales, with platforms like TikTok creating viral sensations overnight. So get scrolling, get inspired, and get creative!

    ❓ FAQs About Makeup Brands: Your Burning Questions Answered

    We get a lot of questions, so we’ve compiled some of the most common ones right here for you!

    1. Are more expensive makeup brands really better?
    Not always! While luxury brands often invest in high-quality ingredients and beautiful packaging, drugstore brands have seriously stepped up their game. As one article notes, “Drugstore brands now offer high-quality alternatives.” Many affordable brands like e.l.f. and Maybelline are owned by the same parent companies as luxury brands, meaning they share access to similar technology and research.

    2. What’s the difference between “cruelty-free” and “vegan”?
    This is a great question!

    • Cruelty-Free: Means the product and its ingredients were not tested on animals at any stage.
    • Vegan: Means the product does not contain any animal-derived ingredients or byproducts (like beeswax, carmine, or lanolin).
      A product can be one without being the other. For example, a lipstick might be cruelty-free but contain beeswax, making it not vegan. Brands like Pacifica and e.l.f. Cosmetics are both 100% vegan and cruelty-free.

    3. How do I find my perfect foundation shade online?
    This can be tricky, but it’s getting easier! Many brand websites now have AI-powered shade-matching tools that use your phone’s camera to analyze your skin tone. You can also use websites like Findation or Temptalia, which allow you to input shades you already use to find matches in other brands. When in doubt, look for brands known for their extensive and well-organized shade ranges, like Fenty Beauty or MAC.

    4. How can I make my makeup last all day?
    Prep is key! Start with a good primer suited to your skin type. After applying your makeup, lock it all in with a setting powder and/or a setting spray. Hourglass’s Veil Translucent Setting Powder is a fantastic talc-free option, and Huda Beauty’s Easy Bake Setting Spray promises long-lasting wear.

    5. Which brands are best for beginners?
    For those just starting their makeup journey, we recommend brands that are affordable, user-friendly, and have a wide range of basic products. e.l.f. Cosmetics and NYX Professional Makeup are excellent choices. They offer high-quality products at great prices, so you can experiment and find what you love without a huge investment.

    Ready to continue your beauty education? Here are some resources we absolutely love:

    • Temptalia: Your go-to source for in-depth product reviews, swatches, and finding “dupes” for high-end products.
    • Byrdie: A fantastic online magazine with expert-backed beauty advice, trend reports, and product recommendations.
    • The Beauty subreddit (r/Beauty): A vibrant online community where you can ask questions, share your looks, and get honest reviews from fellow makeup lovers.
    • INCIdecoder: Want to know what’s really in your products? This site breaks down ingredient lists in plain English so you can understand the science behind your skincare and makeup.

    For this article, we consulted a variety of expert sources, reviews, and industry reports to bring you the most accurate and comprehensive information. You can find links to these sources embedded throughout the text.

    Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Makeup Brands

    a close up of a palette of paint and a brush

    Whew! What a fabulous journey through the dazzling world of makeup brands. From the timeless classics like MAC Cosmetics and Maybelline New York to the bold innovators like Huda Beauty and the conscious newcomers like Typsy Beauty, we’ve covered a universe of options tailored to every skin tone, style, and budget.

    Here’s the takeaway:
    ✅ Positives: The best makeup brands today combine quality, innovation, and inclusivity. Many offer cruelty-free and vegan options, with formulas that blend skincare benefits and long-lasting wear. Whether you want a flawless matte foundation, a hydrating lip oil, or a bold eyeshadow palette, there’s a brand that nails it for you.
    ❌ Negatives: Some luxury brands can be pricey, and not every product suits every skin type. Also, beware of counterfeit products when shopping online—always buy from authorized retailers.

    Our confident recommendation? Start with brands that align with your values and skin needs. If you want professional-grade, go for MAC or Pat McGrath Labs. For budget-friendly and reliable, Maybelline and e.l.f. Cosmetics are winners. For bold, inclusive, and innovative, Fenty Beauty and Huda Beauty are must-tries. And if you want to support clean, ethical beauty, check out Ilia and Typsy Beauty.

    Remember the question we teased earlier: Are expensive brands always better? The answer is a resounding NO. Quality and performance come from smart formulation and innovation, not just price tags.

    Now that you’re armed with expert insights, it’s time to explore, experiment, and express your unique beauty with confidence! 💄✨

    Ready to shop? Here are direct links to explore and grab your next beauty obsession:

    Recommended Books for Makeup Lovers:

    • Face Paint: The Story of Makeup by Lisa Eldridge — Amazon
    • Making Faces by Kevyn Aucoin — Amazon
    • Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual by Bobbi Brown — Amazon

    ❓ FAQs About Makeup Brands: Your Burning Questions Answered

    a marble counter top with various beauty products on it

    What makeup brands offer the best products for sensitive skin?

    Sensitive skin demands gentle, non-irritating formulas with minimal fragrance and harsh chemicals. Brands like Ilia, Tower 28, and Juice Beauty specialize in clean, hypoallergenic makeup designed to soothe and protect sensitive skin. These brands often adhere to dermatological standards and avoid common irritants. For example, Tower 28 is the first brand to meet National Eczema Association guidelines, making it a top pick for sensitive skin types.

    Read more about “17 Best Cruelty-Free Makeup Brands to Try in 2025 🐰✨”

    Which makeup brands are known for long-lasting foundation?

    If you want your foundation to stay flawless from dawn till dusk, look no further than MAC Cosmetics’ Studio Fix Fluid, Huda Beauty’s #FauxFilter Foundation, and L’Oréal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear. These foundations combine buildable coverage with excellent wear time and resistance to heat and sweat. Maybelline’s Fit Me! Matte + Poreless is also a standout drugstore option praised for its longevity.

    Read more about “10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in 2025: Brands That Truly Deliver! 💄”

    What are the top cruelty-free makeup brands in 2024?

    Cruelty-free beauty is no longer a niche but a mainstream expectation. Brands like e.l.f. Cosmetics, Tarte, Hourglass, Fenty Beauty, and Sugar Cosmetics proudly carry cruelty-free certifications. Many also offer vegan options. Checking for certifications like Leaping Bunny or PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies logo is a reliable way to verify cruelty-free status.

    Read more about “15 Must-Know Makeup Brands to Watch in 2025 💄”

    Which makeup brands provide the best value for money?

    Value is about balancing quality and price. Maybelline New York and NYX Professional Makeup offer professional-grade quality at drugstore prices. e.l.f. Cosmetics is a cult favorite for affordable, vegan, and cruelty-free products. For those seeking luxury without overspending, Kiko Milano and Colorbar provide premium-feeling products at accessible price points.

    Read more about “Which Makeup Brand Is Best in US? Top 25 Picks for 2025 💄”

    What are the best luxury makeup brands to invest in?

    Luxury brands like Pat McGrath Labs, Charlotte Tilbury, Dior, and Armani Beauty are known for their exquisite formulations, innovative textures, and stunning packaging. These brands often lead beauty trends and offer products that deliver exceptional performance and longevity, making them worthy investments for makeup aficionados.

    Read more about “Which Makeup Brands Are Best and Cheap? Top 15 Picks for 2025 💄”

    Which makeup brands have the most inclusive shade ranges?

    Inclusivity is key in today’s beauty world. Fenty Beauty set the gold standard with its initial launch of 40 foundation shades, now expanded to 58. MAC Cosmetics and Maybelline also offer extensive shade ranges catering to diverse undertones. Lancôme and NARS have made significant strides in expanding their shade offerings to be more inclusive.

    Read more about “15 Must-Know Beauty Brands That Are Changing the Game (2025) ✨”

    For makeup newbies, ease of use and affordability are crucial. Brands like e.l.f. Cosmetics and NYX Professional Makeup offer beginner-friendly products with straightforward application and forgiving formulas. Their extensive tutorials and community support also make learning fun and accessible.

    Read more about “What Are the 12 Most Popular Makeup Brands for Beginners? 💄 (2025)”

    Ready to glam up your routine? Dive into these brands and discover the magic that suits your unique style and skin. Happy beautifying! 💖

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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